Call for realism on waste

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Business NZ says the Waste Minimisation (Solids) Bill is irrational and its proposed waste levy would be counter-productive to business and the community.

This follows an NZIER report: “Waste or rationality? Economic perspectives on waste management in New Zealand,” commissioned by Business NZ and partner organisations.

Chief executive Phil O’Reilly says it shows visions for a ‘waste-free’ New Zealand are severely disconnected from economic reality.

“All modern, industrial societies produce waste, and this is going to increase as our economy, population and consumption grows.

“It’s good to reduce and recycle our waste, but at some point this will require communities to compromise on other things they want. The costs must be weighed up and balanced.”

Mr O’Reilly says every dollar the country spends on reducing waste forgoes spending in areas such as health, education or infrastructure.

And it’s important that our efforts to minimise the waste of materials are not wasteful of non-material resources such as time, energy and money – by diverting them from other more valuable uses.

Business NZ supports efforts to reduce waste, but only to the extent they are practical and cost effective for the community.

It believes rigorous cost-benefit analysis, exploring the consequences of waste recycling, disposal and restraint, is needed to justify greater direct government intervention in the market for waste.

For this reason Business NZ opposes the Waste Minimisation (Solids) Bill before Parliament, seeking provisions for a waste levy and increased producer responsibility, and recommends it does not proceed.

“Goals to preserve New Zealand’s clean, green reputation here and overseas are worthy of pursuit, but they should not drive us down a track that’s irrational for business and communities,” Mr O’Reilly says.

Contact Phil O’Reilly 04 4966555 or Kathryn Asare 021 555 744